Take Your Mark, Get Set

Ranch manager Severiano Deloera and his team finished pruning our final block last week.  We always hold the single acre of Sauvignon Blanc until the end of pruning to delay budbreak in the only spot on the ranch where we've ever experienced a frost issue.  Seve keeps his group small so they can stay in close touch while they work.  Pruning is one of the most sensitive steps in the annual cycle.  Not only are they shaping the vine for this vintage -- they're also defining the universe of possibilities for next year.  Budbreak is about a week away -- two weeks later than last year.  We like that.  The longer the winter dormancy, the more rest for the vines.  We've had plenty of rain, which will make it easier to support the vines through the warm summer.  I always love the dawn of the the growing season.  Everything is still perfect.